"Polarity 3" by Ivo Perelman & Nate Wooley and Tungu’s "Irrational Thinking Of The Subject" Released by Burning Ambulance
Exceptional Beauty, Intimate Dialogues, and Global Collaborations in Two New Genre-Disregarding Releases
Phil Freeman from Burning Ambulance sent over a couple of new releases, and given Phil’s track record, I prepared myself for a cozy afternoon of standards, rhythm changes, and maybe a blues or two... Just kidding! Instead, what I got were two albums that defy easy categorization, pushing the boundaries of Jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music. On one side, we have Polarity 3, the latest chapter in the ongoing collaboration between tenor saxophonist Ivo Perelman and trumpeter Nate Wooley. On the other, Irrational Thinking Of The Subject, an ambitious, globe-spanning project from Ukrainian bassist and electronic musician Sergey Senchuk, aka Tungu. Both albums offer challenging yet rewarding listening experiences, showcasing the power of improvisation in radically different ways.
Polarity 3
by Ivo Perelman and Nate Wooley
Polarity 3 is the third installment in the ongoing duo series between Brazilian tenor saxophonist Ivo Perelman and American trumpeter Nate Wooley. Recorded in Brooklyn, this album captures the deep musical connection that has been developing between these two over several years and previous releases. Perelman, known for his relentless exploration of sound, and Wooley, a highly adventurous trumpet player, are a natural match. Their improvisational conversations are intricate and intimate, blurring the line between composed and spontaneous.
The album opens with almost mournful, undersea drones before moving through various subtle shifts in mood. Tracks like Four illustrate the duo’s playful but thoughtful dialogue, described aptly as “two pals wandering down the same path,” each veering off the edge to check out the foliage, but always coming back together. The minimalist approach, focusing on instrumental counterpoint, gives the album a lyrical quality that remains spare and abstract. As always, Perelman’s ability to push the boundaries of the tenor saxophone is met with Wooley’s equally bold trumpet explorations.
With Polarity 3, the two musicians once again challenge each other to new heights of improvisation, creating a sound that feels as though it could only be produced by a long-term partnership. Their harmonies are so finely tuned that they often feel composed. For fans of avant-garde Jazz, this album is a must-hear.
Irrational Thinking Of The Subject
by Tungu
On the other end of the sonic spectrum is Sergey Senchuk’s latest project under the moniker Tungu, Irrational Thinking Of The Subject. This unclassifiable record sees Senchuk collaborating remotely with 15 avant-garde musicians from around the world. The result is a truly global effort that defies traditional genre labels, blending elements of electronic music, free improvisation, and experimental soundscapes. Tungu’s lineup of contributors includes notable figures like Noël Akchoté, Phil Minton, and Gebhard Ullmann, each bringing their own distinctive voice to the mix.
The album’s eclectic nature is one of its strengths. Tracks like Acquaintance and Exploration of the Inexplicable feature diverse sonic textures, where electronic and acoustic elements coexist and interact. Each piece showcases a different combination of musicians, creating a listening experience that feels like stepping into a new world with every track. Senchuk’s ability to weave these disparate contributions into a cohesive whole is impressive, turning Irrational Thinking Of The Subject into a fascinating and unpredictable journey.
Senchuk's background as a bassist and electronic musician is evident throughout the album. His use of electronic processing and sound manipulation adds depth to the already rich improvisations, creating a unique and forward-thinking sound. This album is a daring exploration of the possibilities of music, offering something truly original for listeners willing to dive deep into its abstract and often challenging material.
Both Polarity 3 and Irrational Thinking Of The Subject represent the cutting edge of what Jazz and improvisational music can achieve today. Perelman and Wooley’s latest collaboration is a masterclass in musical dialogue, where two world-class improvisers meet on equal footing, creating something that feels organic and meticulously crafted at the same time. Tungu’s release, on the other hand, is a testament to the power of global collaboration, with Sergey Senchuk assembling a far-reaching ensemble to create something entirely new and unclassifiable. While stylistically different, both albums share a commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound and structure, offering listeners an immersive and thought-provoking experience.
Phil Freeman didn’t disappoint this time, either. If you’re looking for music that stretches your mind and your ears, both Polarity 3 and Irrational Thinking Of The Subject are well worth your time. Whether it’s the almost telepathic connection between Perelman and Wooley or the wide-reaching experimentation of Tungu, these albums are prime examples of what happens when artists refuse to stay within the lines.
Happy listening!